How to Choose the Best Outdoor Restaurant Tables

Patio season is upon us, which means that it’s time to start thinking about stocking up on outdoor restaurant tables that will be the best fit for your space. No matter if you’re starting from scratch or looking to upgrade, choosing the right restaurant patio furniture is about more than just creating the look that you want. You also need to be sure that the furniture you choose maximizes the potential of your seating arrangement and provides a comfortable, functional fit for both patrons and waitstaff.

The same characteristics that matter when you’re choosing indoor table tops and bases also apply to outdoor restaurant table tops and bases. You want your outdoor tables to be durable, functional, maintainable, and within your budget, and they should also be aligned with your broader design vision.

A good place to start when choosing the restaurant outdoor tables you want for your establishment is with the material. From there, you can look at specific styles and determine which matches your aesthetic.

Here’s how the different materials compare when it comes to the important characteristics noted above.

Aluminum

This is a popular option for outdoor furniture because it’s lightweight, durable, and relatively inexpensive. This is a good choice if you’re looking for low maintenance tables since aluminum is easy to clean and is not susceptible to rust.

Pros: Weather resistant, rust-resistant, and lightweight for easy maneuverability.

Cons: Holds on to heat, which could be uncomfortable for patrons on warm and/or sunny days.

Wood

Outdoor wood tables are sturdy and reliable, with a classic look that can easily fit into any existing style. If treated properly—and particularly with a protective sealant—wood furniture can stand up to many outdoor elements, including rain, wind, and sun. You’ll want to maintain them well though to ensure longevity.

Pros: Timeless look, plus good weather resistance when properly treated.

Cons: Not all wood furniture is created equal, and there’s a wide range when it comes to cost and durability.

Wrought Iron

Wrought iron tables can last an incredibly long time when cared for correctly, and provide a streamlined look to any restaurant patio. This material is incredibly durable, and high quality wrought iron tables are treated with weather-resistant finishes to keep out moisture—the element you’ll want to be most concerned with since wrought iron can rust if not well maintained.

Pros: Extremely solid, with the ability to hold up well to many elements, including extreme wind.

Cons: Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust, and since it’s a metal, is prone to holding on to heat or cold.

Making the Best Choice For Your Business

As commercial outdoor furniture suppliers, we’re as committed as you are to ensuring that you select the ideal tables for your restaurant’s patio. Shop our outdoor table tops and table bases in a wide variety of materials and styles, and work with our team to choose the right fit based on your budget, your style, and your preferences around durability and maintenance.

Since our outdoor table tops and bases are sourced from the industry’s leading suppliers, you can always trust that you’ll get the high quality you expect—and require—for your business. Shop today and find the outdoor furniture you’ve been looking for!